Alaska Air Downgrades Upgrades with Bag Fees

Beginning on July 10, upgrades on Alaska Airlines flights — whether they’re paid for with miles or purchased with cash at the gate — will come with one fewer associated perk.

Currently, whether you paid for a first-class ticket or were upgraded from coach, if you’re flying up front, the fees for the first and second checked bags are waived. That’s not just Alaska’s policy — it’s standard industry-wide.